Crab Treats
Crab Treats are delicious appetizer bites combining creamy cheese, flavorful crabmeat, and a hint of spice, topped with paprika for color. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, they offer a rich, savory flavor that appeals to seafood lovers and those seeking easy yet impressive finger foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese, milk, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, cayenne pepper, salt, and white pepper in a bowl.
- Stir in the crabmeat until well mixed.
- Halve the English muffins with a fork.
- Cut each muffin half into quarters.
- Pile each muffin wedge high with the crab mixture.
- Place the topped muffin wedges on a baking sheet.
- Dust with paprika.
- Broil until lightly browned and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a suitable alternative. For a twist, consider adding shredded cheese or herbs like dill to the crab mixture. Additionally, you can substitute the English muffins with sliced baguette or crackers for a different base.
Serving Suggestions
These crab treats make a delightful appetizer at gatherings or parties. Pair them with a fresh green salad or serve alongside Sue'S Shrimp Cocktail for a seafood-themed spread. For an elegant touch, consider pairing with a chilled white wine or a light beer. They also complement well with a zesty dipping sauce on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover crab treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them under the broiler for a few minutes until warmed through and bubbly, or use a microwave for a quicker option, but be mindful not to overheat to avoid sogginess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Treats contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the crab mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crab mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply assemble on the English muffins and broil as directed for a quick and easy appetizer.
What type of crabmeat should I use?
You can use either lump crabmeat for a more upscale dish or canned crabmeat for convenience. Just ensure that it's well-drained and picked over for shells. Both options will yield delicious results in this recipe.
Can I freeze the crab treats?
Freezing is not recommended after broiling, as the texture may change. However, you can freeze the crab mixture before broiling. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then assemble and bake fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).